We’re past the halfway point of National Poetry Month, but there’s still plenty of time to celebrate the art of verse. Specifically, the poetic voices of the State of Maine.

National Poetry Month began back in 1996; 2018 marks the 22nd year of the celebration. Introduced by the Academy of American Poets as a way to increase awareness and appreciation of poetry in the United States. Every year, more and more events spring up like April flowers to perpetuate the celebratory nature of NPD.

For our part here at The Maine Edge, we’d like to offer up a brief look at the roster of poets who have held the position of Poet Laureate for the state of Maine, including excerpts from a past conversation with Stuart Kestenbaum, our current Poet Laureate.